November 21, 2000

On-the-road from the Philippines

Sunday, Nov. 5: Arrival in Davao City

After a false start with delayed flights, I joined development educators Mike Beall, Tricia Gates, and Debbie Wege, and future development educator Bob Schumacher in Davao City, Philippines. Development educator Lois Kitsch, head of WOCCU's project here, says Davao City is home to two million people. A few are wealthy, but 90% are considered poor and 60% are below poverty. A family is in poverty if 60% to 70% of its monthly income is spent on food. In some cases, older children are forced onto the streets because parents can't afford food for all.

The Philippines is comprised of 7,000 islands. Eighty-five percent of the population is Catholic. More than 80 dialects are spoken, although most people in larger cities speak English. Divorce is illegal. And the islands have stringent employment laws. For example, it's difficult to fire anyone.

This place is a study in contradictions: the natural beauty of the bay contrasted with huts that look like they could blow away with the first big wind; breathtaking tropical trees and shrubbery planted down the center of unbelievably congested roads; children begging for coins--wearing American logo T-shirts. This latter group is particularly hard to see. Your initial instinct is to give them money--the exchange rate is extremely favorable and a little will go a long way here. But the reality, I was told, is that giving money to the children begging on the roadside will only keep them there.

On a lighter note, Lois Kitsch is fearless behind the wheel and has twice worn out the horn on her car.

Most people here smile. A lot. Yes, there are sad little children. But even more you see people who are friendly, who smile and say hello. Despite the poverty, the road congestion, the heat and humidity, people smile.